Standing Up Against Crude Oil Shipped in Tank Cars Along the Bay Shore

Thanks to more than 150 Baykeeper supporters who took action to protect San Francisco Bay from oil spills!

Baykeeper's Action Alert targeted the Valero Energy Corporation's plan to enlarge the rail yard at its Benicia oil refinery. Valero wants to ship in more crude oil by tank car.

If Valero gets its way, long trains filled with explosion-prone crude oil will run beside Suisun Bay, a San Francisco Bay inlet and important wildlife habitat area. Oil spilled along Suisun Bay's shore could quickly spread throughout San Francisco Bay.

In opposition to the unwise plan, Baykeeper submitted expert comments and more than 150 Baykeeper supporters sent emails to Benicia city government leaders. We urged Benicia to reject the Environmental Impact Report for the Valero rail yard expansion, and say NO to expansion of the Valero refinery rail yard.

Pacific Rim collects and processes recyclable materials from households, businesses, and government agencies, including paper, metal, and electronic waste. Materials are stored outdoors, and when rain falls on the materials, it picks up harmful pollutants before running off the site and into Carquinez Strait, which flows to the Bay.

The company worked cooperatively with Baykeeper on the necessary improvements for the facility, and has signed a legally-binding agreement to implement controls that include collecting storm water and treating it onsite.

The chemicals, which cause cancer and reproductive harm, had also reached groundwater four miles upstream from a Contra Costa Water District drinking water intake.

Dow signed a legally-binding agreement requiring the company to meet yearly targets for cleanup of the pollution. The company also paid a $3 million penalty that was used to restore Bay wetlands and improve the Bay's water quality.

Three great companies are holding benefits for Baykeeper this month and next.

Whole Foods Market on Franklin Street in San Francisco is making Baykeeper a Nickels for Non-Profits recipient. Customers who bring in reusable bags can donate their refunds to Baykeeper, and support a healthy San Francisco Bay.

The Wine & Spirits Top 100 Tasting is a benefit for Baykeeper. The October 21 event will offer wines from the year's top 100 wineries, along with delicious bites from new and notable restaurants and an array of gourmet specialties—all for the cause of protecting San Francisco Bay.

Trainer Communications is supporting Baykeeper with the annual Media SharkTank event. On October 22, Trainer Communications—a public relations, marketing, and social media agency—brings CEOs and executive spokespersons together to pitch their company's story to a panel of journalists. The media "sharks" give the CEOs and executives valuable feedback. The proceeds help keep San Francisco Bay healthy for fish, seals, and real live sharks.